At Macaroni KID Mountain House, Manteca, and Tracy, we love highlighting local organizations that are truly making a difference for families—and this year’s Families at Heart grant recipient, Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD Inc., is doing just that in a powerful and heartfelt way.
From One Family’s Need to a Countywide Impact
Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD Inc. began in April 2024 as a simple social play group for children on the autism spectrum. Like many great community efforts, it was born out of personal experience. After their son was diagnosed with autism, the founder, Monique Patton was new to the area and searching not only for friends for their child, but also for connection and understanding for themselves.
What started as a small gathering quickly grew as more families discovered they weren’t alone. By August 2024, the group’s reach and impact had expanded so much that it officially became a nonprofit organization.
Their Mission: Connection, Community, and Support
The mission of Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD Inc. is to provide meaningful social activities for children on the autism spectrum—alongside their peers—while also creating a supportive community for parents and caregivers. These activities are designed to foster positive social engagement while offering families access to resources and relationships that make this journey feel less isolating.
In just 2024 and 2025, the organization has already served over 300 children across San Joaquin County, including children on the spectrum and their siblings, who are also deeply affected by the autism journey.
During the 2025 EBT disruption, the nonprofit stepped in to support 20 local families with autism-friendly food baskets, providing safe snacks and two meals per family—an act of care that made a real difference during a stressful time.
Their ultimate goal is simple but powerful: to ensure families in Mountain House, Manteca, Tracy, and surrounding areas know they don’t have to stay home, struggle alone, or miss out on opportunities due to lack of information or access.
Meeting Local Challenges Head-On
Families of children with ASD face unique challenges locally, especially as our region experiences rapid population growth. Increased demand has overwhelmed regional centers and therapy providers, leading to long waitlists that can discourage parents and delay early intervention.
Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD Inc. helps bridge this gap by offering thoughtfully designed activities and events tailored specifically for ASD families—respecting their time, energy, and needs. The organization has been embraced by the San Joaquin County Office of Education and Valley Mountain Regional Center as a trusted space where parents can learn about early intervention options and available services.
They also partner with local first responders, including the Manteca Fire Department and Manteca Police Department, to share insight, improve understanding, and create programs focused on keeping youth on the spectrum safer in the community.
Moments That Matter Most
While every event leaves an impact, a few moments stand out. Winning the 36th Annual Because Kids Nonprofit of the Year (2025) was a meaningful recognition that others truly see the difference this organization is making in such a short time.
Their largest event, the Autism Resource Fair & Spring Festival, showcased the immediate power of bringing families together in a fun, welcoming environment filled with information and support. Another unforgettable moment came during the 2025 Walk for Autism, when over 200 participants gathered on a chilly Thursday evening to walk together in solidarity.
Each event carries deep emotion. The founders know firsthand what it feels like to be new to a city, without a support system, while navigating a life-changing diagnosis. That understanding fuels everything they do.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The excitement continues into 2026 as the organization launches two new dedicated programs: Kids Social Skills and Teens Social Skills. These programs are designed to support youth on the spectrum during the summer months through engaging activities, field trips, tours, and virtual sessions focused on daily life skills and positive social behaviors.
The teen program will also include visits to local businesses, offering exposure to job skills in areas such as customer service, hospitality, and the insurance industry—an important step toward independence and confidence.
How Families Can Get Involved
Families can participate or volunteer by reaching out via email and following the organization on social media for updates. Volunteers help in many ways, from reading during story time and assisting with clean-up to providing event security to ensure families feel safe and supported.
Because events require funding, the nonprofit hosts small to moderate fundraisers throughout the year to cover materials, location fees, and program costs.
Why Community Support Matters
Community awareness and involvement are essential to the mission. Although founded in Manteca, Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD Inc. hosts activities throughout Lathrop and Stockton to ensure children and teens on the spectrum have the same social opportunities as their neurotypical peers—no matter where they live.
One Last Thing They Want You to Know
This is a small, family-created nonprofit led by parents who are on their own autism journey. They are not faith-based, they are unpaid, and every activity is powered by heart, dedication, and community partnerships. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, they work tirelessly with local businesses, the City of Manteca, San Joaquin County, and community partners to give youth on the autism spectrum the best possible opportunity to thrive in the Central Valley.
Their hope is simple: to grow alongside the community, foster true autism inclusion, and leave a lasting, positive impression in Manteca and beyond.
💙 We are honored to recognize Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD Inc. as a Families at Heart grant recipient and grateful for the love, advocacy, and connection they bring to families across Manteca and beyond.
This Families at Heart spotlight is based on responses provided by Monique Patton, Founder of Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD Inc.
